The effect of an innovative tooth whitening technique on tooth color change, chemical diffusion and surface changes

For dentists, tooth whitening is a great aid for reaching patient’s expectations of a bright smile. However, a major drawback of tooth whitening is tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is the most common reported side effect of tooth whitening with an incidence rate as high as 75%.

Potassium nitrate has been recommended to reduce tooth sensitivity, but the most techniques to treat tooth sensitivity are lengthy or inefficient. To overcome these issues, we have conducted an in-vitro study to evaluate a new double-layer, single-application in-office technique in which potassium nitrate and hydrogen peroxide layers are applied simultaneously.

The purpose of this study was to establish a timeframe at which potassium nitrate and hydrogen peroxide are detected within the pulp chamber and the effect of potassium nitrate on the diffusion of HP using chemical assays, further evaluate the effect of this technique on tooth surface characteristics with the use of microscopes and surface topography reader, and color change with the use of a colorimeter. By doing so, we may show that this technique is a time-efficient, and convenient technique for both the patient and the clinician.

The double layer technique showed superior diffusion of potassium nitrate into the pulp chamber when compared to other techniques. It showed superior performance in protecting the tooth surface when compared to other techniques. Potassium nitrate as a barrier between HP and the tooth did not adversely affect tooth total color change, the double layer technique performance was equal to other commercial technique. The double layer technique may be suggested as an alternative to in-office tooth whitening treatment to minimize detrimental tooth whitening side effects.